Improving the Efficiency and Reliability of India's Power Grid through Targeted EHV Transmission Line Investments: A Case of UPPCL

Indian power system grid efficiency and reliability require techno-economic upgradation of Extra High Voltage (EHV) transmission lines. Uttar Pradesh Power Corporation Limited optimized the insulating design of its 400 kV transmission network, and this article analyses the benefits and problems. By decreasing insulation specifications from 27 disc insulators to 21 and live metal clearance from 2600mm to 2400mm, UPPCL might save 7–9% per line and minimize the right of way. Over five years, the initial test line has operated satisfactorily, proving the technical viability of optimization. However, operational experience with longer lines highlighted practical issues such as insulator quality, bird activity, and design margins. This emphasizes the need for a balanced approach that maximizes cost and instills reliability and safety, especially in poor weather-tripping scenarios. Based on UPPCL experience, the study recommends conservative settings, stringent quality control, and regular insulator cleaning to dissuade bird perching. Joint efforts should target research and validation. The case study of UPPCL shows how India's power system will gain from EHV transmission line optimisation in prices, reliability, and ecology. The report also discusses the large-scale adoption of optimized parameters and their impact on the national power grid.